Buying land in Portugal is an exciting step, but it’s only the beginning of the journey. What happens next can have a major impact on your budget, timelines, and overall experience. Understanding the process from the start helps avoid costly redesigns, delays, and unnecessary stress. This guide walks through the key steps after purchasing land, assuming the land is urban and buildable . Other land classifications may require additional planning steps before a project can begi

Buying land in Portugal that comes with an “approved project” can sound like a major advantage. In many cases, sellers pursue project approval because it increases perceived value and justifies a higher asking price. And sometimes, that value is real. But not always. Understanding what an approved project actually means — and whether it still applies — is essential before paying a premium. 1. Why sellers seek project approval An approved architectural project reduces uncertai

The Portuguese real estate market in 2026 has entered a more mature phase. The post-pandemic period of speculative “buy anything” buying is largely behind us, replaced by a more rational, data-driven cycle. Today’s opportunities are shaped by infrastructure investment, sustainability premiums, and the evolution of residency-by-investment strategies. Portugal remains highly attractive, but success in 2026 depends less on momentum and more on positioning. Buyers who understand

Portugal’s real estate market continues to evolve rapidly, but the Alentejo region is where the most significant residential growth is occurring. Over the past few years, the area has stood out for a rare combination: rising transaction volumes alongside increasing property values. This trend is reshaping Alentejo’s role in the national real estate landscape, signaling a shift in demand away from traditionally saturated metropolitan markets toward regions offering space, life

If you’re 35 or younger and dreaming of owning your first home in Portugal, there’s good news. The Portuguese government recently introduced a generous tax exemption designed to make it easier for young residents to buy their first property. What the exemption covers When you buy a home in Portugal, you normally pay two taxes at the time of purchase: IMT (Imposto Municipal sobre as Transmissões Onerosas de Imóveis)  – a property transfer tax based on the purchase price, and S

Ericeira: Portugal’s Dog-Friendly Surf Town | Real Estate & Lifestyle Guide (2025) Walking your dog along the cliffs of Ericeira at sunset, stopping for a coffee where pets are welcome, and finishing the day with dinner at a seaside restaurant where your four-legged friend can sit by your side — this is everyday life in one of Portugal’s most charming coastal towns. For buyers and renters considering a move, Ericeira is more than a surf haven. It’s also one of the most dog-fr

Moving to a new place brings a lot of questions, especially when it comes to your children’s schooling. The Ericeira / Mafra area offers a mix of public, private, and special-needs options, as well as access to international schools in the wider Lisbon region. Below is a breakdown of what you need to know, plus tips and resources to help families plan. Education & Schools in Ericeira and Mafra | A 2025 Family Guide for Expats 1. Portuguese Public Schools in Ericeira & Mafra M

More and more Americans are choosing Portugal for its sunshine, safety, healthcare, and laid-back lifestyle. Ericeira, with its surf culture and family-friendly vibe, has become a favorite spot. But what are the actual ways to make the move today? Here’s a simple breakdown. Ribeira d'Ilhas, World Surfing Reserve Ericeira Moving to Portugal as an American (2025) | D7, D8 & D2 Visa Options Explained 1. The D7 Visa – Perfect for Retirees and Investors Thinking of moving to Portu

Buying Property in Portugal (2025) | Step-by-Step Guide & Taxes Explained Portugal continues to attract buyers from around the world — whether for lifestyle, investment, or relocation. But navigating the purchase process and understanding the taxes involved is essential before signing any contract. Here’s a clear overview of how it works. Buying a house in Portugal? This 2025 guide explains every step — reservation, CPCV, deed, and taxes (IMT, Stamp Duty, IMI) — with examples